Letter Request

Invitation Letters for International Visitors

The Department of State accepts invitation letters written by students as a supplemental document for their visitors to apply for a visa to come to the U.S. You do not need a separate support letter from ISSS in order to invite a family member to visit the United States.

For your convenience, we have prepared a template to help you craft your invitation letter.

Download the invitation letter template

In addition to the letter, please consider providing your visitor with the following documents for their visa interview:

  • Copy of your passport
  • Copy of your I-20
  • Copy of your I-94
  • Copy of visa stamp
  • Copy of enrollment verification from the University of Pennsylvania’s Registrar

Visitors must be able to provide financial support for their visit.

Please note:

  • ISSS is unable to influence the Department of State visa interview process or wait times.
  • This is not a travel support letter. Please contact your school to request a travel support letter. 
  • If you need a letter/certificate of enrollment, please go to the Registrar’s Office.
  • If you are a student from Canada needing verification of the tuition amounts, please go to the Registrar’s office or Student Financial Services.